The Robert Cray Band, fronted by acclaimed blues guitarist and singer Robert Cray, has been a cornerstone of modern blues since its formation in the late 1970s. Known for their smooth blend of blues, soul, and R&B, the band gained widespread recognition with the release of “Strong Persuader” in 1986, featuring hits like “Smoking Gun” and “Right Next Door (Because of Me).” Cray’s soulful voice and masterful guitar work, combined with the band’s tight, expressive musicianship, have earned them five Grammy Awards and a loyal following. Their music continues to resonate, blending classic blues traditions with contemporary influences.
1. Consequences
“Consequences” by the Robert Cray Band is a soulful track that delves into the aftermath of decisions made in love. With Cray’s signature bluesy guitar riffs and emotive vocals, the song navigates themes of regret and acceptance. Its smooth melody and poignant lyrics reflect on the consequences of actions, both intended and unintended, in relationships. Cray’s expressive delivery captures the complexities of emotions, from longing to introspection, making “Consequences” a heartfelt exploration of the human experience through the lens of love and its repercussions.
2. The Forecast (Calls for Pain)
“The Forecast (Calls for Pain)” is a song by the Robert Cray Band, featured on their 1990 album “Midnight Stroll.” Known for its bluesy and soulful style, the song delves into themes of heartache and emotional turmoil. Robert Cray’s distinctive guitar work and soulful vocals convey the raw emotions of the lyrics, exploring the pain and challenges of relationships. The track showcases Cray’s ability to blend traditional blues with contemporary elements, creating a powerful and evocative musical experience that resonates with listeners drawn to heartfelt, soul-searching music.
3. Right Next Door (Because of Me)
“Right Next Door (Because of Me)” is a classic blues song by the Robert Cray Band, released in 1986 on their album “Strong Persuader.” The song tells a poignant story of love, temptation, and regret. Robert Cray’s soulful vocals and expressive guitar playing vividly capture the emotions of a man who becomes entangled in an affair with his neighbor’s wife. The lyrics reveal the guilt and conflict he feels as he reflects on the consequences of his actions. “Right Next Door (Because of Me)” became one of the band’s signature songs, showcasing their ability to blend blues traditions with modern sensibilities, resonating deeply with audiences worldwide.
4. Don’t Be Afraid of The Dark
“Don’t Be Afraid of The Dark” is a renowned song by the Robert Cray Band, known for its infectious rhythm and Cray’s soulful vocals. Released in 1988, it blends blues and soul seamlessly, with catchy guitar hooks and a message of encouragement. The lyrics speak to facing challenges with resilience and finding strength in difficult times. The song’s upbeat tempo and Cray’s emotive delivery make it a standout in his repertoire, showcasing his ability to fuse traditional blues with contemporary sensibilities. “Don’t Be Afraid of The Dark” remains a classic example of Cray’s musical prowess and enduring appeal.
5. Smoking Gun
“Smoking Gun” is a signature song by the Robert Cray Band, released in 1986. It’s a gritty blues track with a driving rhythm and Cray’s distinctive guitar work. The lyrics tell a tale of suspicion and betrayal in a relationship, where the protagonist confronts evidence of infidelity (“Your own eyes will tell you lies”). Cray’s soulful vocals and the song’s tight instrumentation create a captivating narrative, blending blues with a hint of rock influence. “Smoking Gun” became a major hit for Cray, showcasing his ability to capture raw emotion and storytelling within the framework of modern blues music.
6. Acting This Way
“Acting This Way” is a track by the Robert Cray Band from their album “Midnight Stroll,” released in 1990. It’s a soulful and introspective song that reflects on relationship dynamics and personal growth. Cray’s smooth vocals and expressive guitar work define the track, with lyrics that delve into themes of love, self-reflection, and the complexities of human behavior. “Acting This Way” showcases Cray’s ability to blend blues, soul, and rock influences into a cohesive and emotionally resonant piece, making it a standout in his discography.
7. She’s Gone
“She’s Gone” is a soulful blues ballad by the Robert Cray Band, featured on their album “False Accusations” released in 1985. The song explores themes of heartbreak and loss, with Robert Cray’s emotive vocals and soulful guitar playing delivering a poignant narrative. The lyrics tell the story of a man grappling with the pain of losing his lover, reflecting on memories and the emptiness left behind. “She’s Gone” showcases Cray’s ability to evoke deep emotions through his music, combining traditional blues elements with a contemporary sound that resonates with listeners drawn to soulful storytelling and heartfelt musical expression.
8. Will You Think of Me
“Will You Think of Me” is a soulful ballad by the Robert Cray Band, known for its heartfelt lyrics and emotive melody. Released on the album “Midnight Stroll” in 1990, the song showcases Cray’s smooth vocals and his adeptness at blending blues with soulful R&B elements. The lyrics explore themes of longing and reminiscence, with Cray questioning whether his presence will linger in the thoughts of a former lover. With its evocative guitar solos and poignant storytelling, “Will You Think of Me” exemplifies Cray’s ability to capture deep emotions through his music.
9. Bad Influence
“Bad Influence” is a blues-rock song by the Robert Cray Band, featured on their 1983 album of the same name. The song reflects on the consequences of being drawn into a troubled relationship or situation where negative influences abound. Robert Cray’s smooth vocals and searing guitar work convey the frustration and introspection of someone grappling with the impact of their choices. “Bad Influence” showcases Cray’s knack for blending traditional blues with a modern edge, emphasizing his ability to craft compelling narratives within the blues-rock genre. The song’s themes of temptation and personal struggle resonate with audiences seeking authentic, emotionally charged music.
10. Time Makes Two
“Time Makes Two” is a soulful blues ballad by the Robert Cray Band, featured on their 2005 album “Twenty.” The song explores themes of heartache and longing, with Robert Cray’s smooth vocals and expressive guitar playing capturing the emotional depth of the lyrics. “Time Makes Two” delves into the complexities of relationships, reflecting on how time can both heal wounds and deepen the longing for a lost love. The song showcases Cray’s mature songwriting and his ability to blend blues, soul, and contemporary elements into a poignant musical expression that resonates with listeners seeking introspective and soul-stirring music.